Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for positioning a target device, comprising: receiving, from a location server, a Request Location Information message that indicates at least a first positioning method from a plurality of positioning methods, the plurality of positioning methods including the first positioning method and a second positioning method, wherein the Request Location Information message comprises a first field containing information specific to the first positioning method and a second field containing common parameters, wherein the common parameters are applicable to the first positioning method and the second positioning method and also applicable to all positioning methods indicated in the Request Location Information message, and wherein the common parameters comprise a quality-of-service (QoS), an indication of whether periodic location information is requested, an indication of whether triggered location information is requested, or any combination thereof, and wherein the plurality of positioning methods comprises: an uplink time difference based positioning method, a downlink time difference based positioning method, a propagation time based positioning method, a signal direction based positioning method, a path loss based positioning method, a radio frequency pattern matching positioning method, assisted Global Navigation Satellite System positioning method, enhanced cell identity positioning method or any combination thereof; and performing positioning in response to the Request Location Information message.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein performing positioning in response to the Request Location Information message comprises determining a location estimate for a location of the target device.
A method for determining the location of a target device in a wireless communication system involves receiving a Request Location Information message from a network node, such as a base station or a location server, and performing positioning operations in response. The positioning operations include determining a location estimate for the target device by processing signals received from the device or other reference points. The method may involve using techniques such as triangulation, trilateration, or signal strength measurements to calculate the device's position. The location estimate is then transmitted back to the requesting network node, enabling the network to track or manage the device's location for services like emergency response, asset tracking, or network optimization. The method may also include error handling, such as retrying positioning attempts if initial measurements are unreliable or adjusting parameters to improve accuracy. The technique is particularly useful in scenarios where precise device location is required, such as in IoT applications, autonomous systems, or public safety networks. The method ensures efficient and accurate location determination while minimizing computational overhead and network resource usage.
3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising: sending the location estimate to the location server, wherein the location estimate is a coarse estimate, and wherein the location server determines a fine location estimate based on the coarse estimate.
A method for determining a fine location estimate of a device involves generating a coarse location estimate and refining it using a location server. The coarse estimate is initially derived from signals received by the device, such as from nearby transmitters or sensors, which provide an approximate position. This coarse estimate is then transmitted to a location server, which processes the data to produce a more precise fine location estimate. The server may use additional data, such as signal strength, timing, or environmental factors, to improve accuracy. This approach is useful in scenarios where the device has limited processing power or access to precise positioning systems, allowing the server to handle the computationally intensive tasks of refining the location. The method ensures that devices with basic positioning capabilities can still achieve high-accuracy location estimates by leveraging external server resources. This is particularly valuable in applications like asset tracking, navigation, or emergency services where precise location data is critical but local processing is constrained.
4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: periodically sending updated location information to the location server based on determining that the common parameters comprise the indication that periodic location information is requested.
A system and method for managing location information in a wireless communication network addresses the problem of inefficient and unreliable location tracking of mobile devices. The invention provides a solution by enabling a mobile device to determine when to send location updates to a location server based on predefined parameters shared between the device and the server. These parameters include criteria such as movement thresholds, time intervals, or specific conditions that trigger location updates. The mobile device monitors its own movement and other relevant factors, then sends location information to the server only when the parameters indicate an update is necessary. This reduces unnecessary data transmission, conserves network resources, and ensures timely location tracking. The system also allows for dynamic adjustments to the parameters, enabling adaptive location tracking based on changing conditions. Additionally, the mobile device can periodically send updated location information to the server when the parameters explicitly request periodic updates, ensuring continuous monitoring without excessive data overhead. The invention improves the efficiency and accuracy of location-based services while minimizing power consumption and network load.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the common parameters included in the Request Location Information message further comprise a location type for a terminal-assisted positioning method, a location type for a terminal-based positioning method, or both.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods for requesting and processing location information in mobile networks. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and flexible location determination in wireless networks, particularly when different positioning methods (terminal-assisted or terminal-based) are used. Terminal-assisted positioning relies on network infrastructure to calculate the device's location, while terminal-based positioning relies on the device itself to determine its location. The invention improves upon existing systems by enhancing the Request Location Information message to include additional common parameters that specify the type of positioning method required. These parameters allow the network to better handle location requests by indicating whether terminal-assisted, terminal-based, or both types of positioning are supported or required. This flexibility ensures that the network can optimize resource usage and accuracy based on the capabilities of the mobile device and the network infrastructure. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios where different positioning methods may be available, and the network needs to dynamically select the most appropriate method for a given location request. By including these parameters in the Request Location Information message, the system can improve the efficiency and reliability of location services in wireless communication networks.
6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the common parameters included in the Request Location Information message further comprise a location type for at least one of the following positioning methods: assisted Global Navigation Satellite System, observed time difference, enhanced observed time difference, observed time difference of arrival, and advanced forward link trilateration.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods for requesting and providing location information in mobile networks. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and accurate location determination in wireless networks, particularly when multiple positioning methods are available. The invention enhances the Request Location Information message by including common parameters that specify the type of location data required, supporting various positioning techniques such as assisted Global Navigation Satellite System (A-GNSS), observed time difference (OTD), enhanced observed time difference (E-OTD), observed time difference of arrival (OTDOA), and advanced forward link trilateration (AFLT). These parameters allow the network to determine the most suitable positioning method based on available resources and environmental conditions, improving location accuracy and reliability. The inclusion of these parameters in the message ensures compatibility with different positioning technologies while optimizing network performance. This approach enables seamless integration of multiple positioning methods, enhancing the overall efficiency of location-based services in wireless networks.
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the Request Location Information message is one of a plurality of positioning messages exchanged between the location server and a recipient of the Request Location Information message, and wherein the plurality of positioning messages comprises one or more of: a Request Capabilities message to request capabilities of a receiving entity for a positioning protocol and positioning methods, a Provide Capabilities message to provide capabilities of a sending entity for a positioning protocol and positioning methods, and a Provide Location Information message to provide location information.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods for exchanging positioning messages between a location server and a recipient device to determine the device's location. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and standardized communication of positioning-related data between network entities to support accurate location determination. The method involves exchanging a plurality of positioning messages between a location server and a recipient device, such as a mobile device. These messages include a Request Location Information message, which is part of a broader set of positioning messages. The Request Location Information message is used to request location data from the recipient device. Additionally, the system may exchange a Request Capabilities message, which allows the location server to query the recipient device about its supported positioning protocols and methods. The recipient device responds with a Provide Capabilities message, detailing its capabilities for different positioning techniques. Finally, the Provide Location Information message is used to transmit the actual location data from the recipient device to the location server. These messages enable the location server to accurately determine the device's position by leveraging the device's supported capabilities and available positioning methods. The system ensures efficient and standardized communication, improving location accuracy and reliability in wireless networks.
8. The method of claim 7 , further comprising: receiving a Request Capabilities message from the location server; and transmitting, in response to the Request Capabilities positioning message, capabilities of the target device to the location server in a Provide Capabilities message.
This invention relates to wireless positioning systems, specifically methods for exchanging positioning capabilities between a target device and a location server. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and standardized communication of positioning capabilities to enable accurate location determination. The invention describes a method where a target device receives a Request Capabilities message from a location server, which requests information about the device's positioning capabilities. In response, the target device transmits a Provide Capabilities message containing its positioning capabilities to the location server. These capabilities may include supported positioning methods, signal measurement accuracy, and other relevant parameters that influence location determination. The exchange ensures the location server can select the most appropriate positioning technique based on the target device's capabilities, improving accuracy and efficiency. The method is part of a broader system where the target device and location server engage in a positioning session, including initial setup, capability exchange, and location determination. The capability exchange step ensures both parties understand the available positioning options before proceeding with location calculations. This approach optimizes resource usage and enhances the reliability of location services in wireless networks.
9. The method of claim 8 , wherein the capabilities include an indication of one or more positioning methods supported by the target device and the capabilities of the target device for each positioning method supported by the target device.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods for determining and utilizing positioning capabilities of target devices in a network. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and accurate positioning of devices in wireless networks, particularly in scenarios where multiple positioning methods may be available but not all devices support the same methods or have the same capabilities. The method involves a network entity, such as a location server, obtaining positioning capabilities of a target device. These capabilities include an indication of one or more positioning methods supported by the target device, as well as the specific capabilities of the target device for each supported positioning method. Positioning methods may include techniques like GPS, Wi-Fi triangulation, cellular network-based positioning, or other radio-based localization methods. The capabilities for each method may include factors such as accuracy, power consumption, latency, or other performance metrics associated with the device's ability to perform positioning using that method. By obtaining and utilizing this information, the network can select the most appropriate positioning method for the target device based on its capabilities, the available network resources, and the desired accuracy or efficiency of the positioning operation. This ensures optimal use of network resources and improves the reliability and accuracy of device positioning in wireless networks. The method may be applied in various applications, including asset tracking, emergency services, or location-based services.
10. An apparatus for positioning a target device, comprising: at least one processing unit; and a memory coupled to the at least one processing unit, the memory storing instructions that when executed by the at least one processing unit cause the at least one processing unit to: receive, from a location server, a Request Location Information message that indicates at least a first positioning method from a plurality of positioning methods, the plurality of positioning methods including the first positioning method and a second positioning method, wherein the Request Location Information message comprises a first field containing information specific to the first positioning method and a second field containing common parameters, wherein the common parameters are applicable to the first positioning method and the second positioning method and also applicable to all positioning methods indicated in the Request Location Information message, and wherein the common parameters comprise a quality-of-service (QoS), an indication of whether periodic location information is requested, an indication of whether triggered location information is requested, or any combination thereof, and wherein the plurality of positioning methods comprises: an uplink time difference based positioning method, a downlink time difference based positioning method, a propagation time based positioning method, a signal direction based positioning method, a path loss based positioning method, a radio frequency pattern matching positioning method, assisted Global Navigation Satellite System positioning method, enhanced cell identity positioning method or any combination thereof; and perform positioning in response to the Request Location Information message.
This apparatus is designed for positioning a target device in wireless communication systems, addressing the need for flexible and efficient location determination using multiple positioning methods. The system includes a processing unit and memory storing instructions to receive a Request Location Information message from a location server. This message specifies at least one positioning method from a predefined set, including uplink/downlink time difference, propagation time, signal direction, path loss, radio frequency pattern matching, assisted GNSS, and enhanced cell identity methods. The message contains a first field with method-specific parameters and a second field with common parameters applicable to all indicated methods, such as quality-of-service (QoS), periodic location requests, and triggered location requests. Upon receiving the message, the apparatus performs positioning using the specified method(s), enabling adaptable and precise location tracking. The system optimizes resource usage by standardizing common parameters while allowing method-specific customization, improving accuracy and efficiency in diverse wireless environments.
11. The apparatus of claim 10 , wherein performing positioning in response to the Request Location Information message comprises determining a location estimate for a location of the target device.
A positioning apparatus for wireless networks determines the location of a target device in response to a location request. The apparatus receives a Request Location Information message from a requesting entity, such as a network node or another device, and processes this message to initiate positioning operations. The apparatus then determines a location estimate for the target device, which may involve measuring signals from the target device or other reference points, applying positioning algorithms, and calculating coordinates or spatial coordinates. The location estimate is derived using techniques such as trilateration, triangulation, or signal strength analysis, depending on the available data and network conditions. The apparatus may also incorporate additional data, such as timing information or device identifiers, to refine the location estimate. Once computed, the location estimate is transmitted back to the requesting entity or stored for further use. This system enables accurate and efficient positioning of devices in wireless networks, supporting applications like asset tracking, emergency services, and location-based services. The apparatus may operate in various wireless environments, including cellular, Wi-Fi, or IoT networks, and can adapt to different positioning protocols and standards.
12. The apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the instructions further cause the at least one processing unit to: send the location estimate to the location server, wherein the location estimate is a coarse estimate, and wherein the location server determines a fine location estimate based on the coarse estimate.
This invention relates to a system for determining the location of a device, particularly in scenarios where initial location estimates are imprecise. The problem addressed is the need for accurate location determination when a device's initial position estimate is coarse, such as in environments with limited signal availability or interference. The system includes a device with at least one processing unit and a location server. The device generates a coarse location estimate using available signals or sensors, such as GPS, Wi-Fi, or cellular signals. The coarse estimate is then transmitted to the location server, which refines it into a fine location estimate using additional data or algorithms. The server may incorporate external data sources, such as map databases or historical location data, to improve accuracy. The refined location is then provided to the device or other systems for use in navigation, tracking, or other location-based services. This approach improves location accuracy by leveraging server-side processing and additional data sources, overcoming limitations of device-only location estimation. The system is particularly useful in urban canyons, indoor environments, or areas with weak signal coverage.
13. The apparatus of claim 10 , wherein the instructions further cause the at least one processing unit to: periodically send updated location information to the location server based on determining that the common parameters comprise the indication that periodic location information is requested.
A system for managing location data in a networked environment addresses the challenge of efficiently tracking and updating device locations while minimizing unnecessary data transmission. The system includes a computing device with at least one processing unit and a location server. The computing device executes instructions to monitor common parameters associated with location tracking, such as user preferences, network conditions, or application requirements. When these parameters indicate that periodic location updates are needed, the device automatically sends updated location information to the location server at regular intervals. This ensures that the server maintains accurate and timely location data without excessive communication overhead. The system may also include additional features, such as adjusting update frequency based on movement speed or network availability, to further optimize performance. By dynamically adapting to changing conditions, the system reduces power consumption and bandwidth usage while ensuring reliable location tracking for applications like navigation, asset management, or emergency services.
14. The apparatus of claim 10 , wherein the common parameters included in the Request Location Information message further comprise a location type for a terminal-assisted positioning method, a location type for a terminal-based positioning method, or both.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods and apparatus for location-based services in mobile networks. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and flexible location determination in wireless networks, particularly when different positioning methods (terminal-assisted or terminal-based) are used. The invention provides an apparatus that processes a Request Location Information message to include common parameters supporting both terminal-assisted and terminal-based positioning methods. Terminal-assisted positioning relies on network infrastructure to calculate the terminal's location using measurements provided by the terminal, while terminal-based positioning allows the terminal itself to compute its location. The apparatus ensures compatibility with both methods by including location type indicators in the message, allowing the network and terminal to coordinate positioning procedures effectively. This flexibility improves accuracy and reliability in location-based services, such as emergency response, navigation, and asset tracking. The invention enhances existing wireless communication standards by standardizing how location requests are formatted and processed, reducing implementation complexity and ensuring interoperability across different devices and networks.
15. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions for positioning a target device, wherein the instructions when executed by the one or more processors cause the one or more processors to: receive, from a location server, a Request Location Information message that indicates at least a first positioning method from a plurality of positioning methods, the plurality of positioning methods including the first positioning method and a second positioning method, wherein the Request Location Information message comprises a first field containing information specific to the first positioning method and a second field containing common parameters, wherein the common parameters are applicable to the first positioning method and the second positioning method and also applicable to all positioning methods indicated in the Request Location Information message, and wherein the common parameters comprise a quality-of-service (QoS), an indication of whether periodic location information is requested, an indication of whether triggered location information is requested, or any combination thereof, and wherein the plurality of positioning methods comprises: an uplink time difference based positioning method, a downlink time difference based positioning method, a propagation time based positioning method, a signal direction based positioning method, a path loss based positioning method, a radio frequency pattern matching positioning method, assisted Global Navigation Satellite System positioning method, enhanced cell identity positioning method or any combination thereof; and perform positioning in response to the Request Location Information message.
This invention relates to a system for positioning a target device using a flexible and efficient messaging protocol. The problem addressed is the need for a standardized way to request and perform positioning using multiple methods while minimizing redundant data transmission. The solution involves a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed, enable a processor to receive a Request Location Information message from a location server. This message specifies at least one positioning method from a predefined set, including uplink/downlink time difference, propagation time, signal direction, path loss, radio frequency pattern matching, assisted GNSS, and enhanced cell identity methods. The message includes a first field with method-specific parameters and a second field with common parameters applicable to all indicated methods, such as quality-of-service (QoS) requirements, periodic location updates, and triggered location requests. The system processes the message and performs positioning accordingly, optimizing communication by separating shared and method-specific data. This approach reduces overhead and improves efficiency in location-based services.
16. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15 , performing positioning in response to the Request Location Information message comprises determining a location estimate for a location of the target device.
The invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods for positioning a target device in response to a Request Location Information message. The problem addressed is the need for accurate and efficient location determination of a target device within a network, particularly in scenarios where precise positioning is required for services such as emergency calls, asset tracking, or navigation. The invention involves a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed, perform positioning of a target device. The process begins by receiving a Request Location Information message, which triggers the positioning procedure. In response, the system determines a location estimate for the target device. This location estimate is derived using one or more positioning techniques, such as triangulation, trilateration, or signal strength-based methods, depending on the available network infrastructure and signals. The system may utilize measurements from multiple reference points, such as base stations, access points, or satellites, to improve accuracy. The determined location estimate is then used for various applications, including emergency services, location-based services, or device tracking. The invention ensures that the positioning process is initiated in response to a specific request, allowing for on-demand location determination while minimizing unnecessary computations. The use of a non-transitory computer-readable medium ensures that the instructions are reliably stored and executed, providing consistent and accurate positioning results. This approach enhances the reliability and efficiency of location-based services in wireless networks.
17. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 16 , wherein the instructions further cause the one or more processors to: send the location estimate to the location server, wherein the location estimate is a coarse estimate, and wherein the location server determines a fine location estimate based on the coarse estimate.
This invention relates to a system for determining a fine location estimate of a device using a coarse location estimate. The problem addressed is the need for accurate location determination in scenarios where initial location estimates are imprecise. The system involves a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, perform location estimation tasks. The instructions cause the processors to generate a coarse location estimate of a device, which is then sent to a location server. The location server refines this coarse estimate to produce a more precise fine location estimate. The coarse estimate may be derived from various sources, such as signal strength measurements, triangulation, or other positioning techniques. The location server uses additional data or algorithms to improve the accuracy of the initial estimate, potentially incorporating factors like environmental conditions, signal propagation models, or historical data. This approach allows for more reliable location tracking in environments where direct fine location determination is challenging or resource-intensive. The system is particularly useful in applications requiring precise positioning, such as navigation, asset tracking, or emergency services, where initial location data may be insufficiently accurate.
18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15 , wherein the instructions further cause the one or more processors to: periodically send updated location information to the location server based on determining that the common parameters comprise the indication that periodic location information is requested.
A system for managing location data in a wireless communication network addresses the challenge of efficiently tracking and updating device locations while minimizing unnecessary data transmission. The system includes a location server that receives and stores location information from mobile devices, such as smartphones or IoT devices, and a mobile device configured to determine its location using GPS or other positioning methods. The mobile device communicates with the location server to transmit location updates, and the server processes these updates to maintain accurate tracking of device positions. The system further includes a mechanism for optimizing location updates by using common parameters exchanged between the mobile device and the server. These parameters define conditions under which the mobile device should send location updates, such as when the device's location changes beyond a certain threshold or when periodic updates are requested. The mobile device monitors these parameters and sends location updates accordingly, reducing unnecessary transmissions and conserving network resources. The location server processes the received updates and may adjust the common parameters dynamically based on network conditions or user preferences. This approach ensures efficient and timely location tracking while minimizing bandwidth usage and power consumption on mobile devices. The system is particularly useful in applications requiring continuous or periodic location monitoring, such as fleet management, asset tracking, or emergency services.
19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15 , wherein the common parameters included in the Request Location Information message further comprise a location type for a terminal-assisted positioning method, a location type for a terminal-based positioning method, or both.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods for requesting and processing location information in mobile networks. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and flexible location determination in wireless networks, where different positioning methods (terminal-assisted and terminal-based) may be required depending on the device capabilities and network conditions. The invention describes a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed, cause a network entity to generate and transmit a Request Location Information message to a mobile device. This message includes common parameters that specify positioning requirements, such as a location type for terminal-assisted positioning (where the network calculates the location using device-provided measurements) and/or a location type for terminal-based positioning (where the device calculates its own location). The message may also include additional parameters like a requested quality of service (QoS) level, a maximum allowed location age, and a vertical coordinate request indicator. The system ensures compatibility with different positioning methods by allowing the network to request either terminal-assisted, terminal-based, or both types of location information in a single message. This flexibility improves efficiency in location-based services, such as emergency calls, navigation, or asset tracking, by reducing the need for multiple requests or complex negotiations between the network and the device. The invention enhances the adaptability of wireless networks to varying positioning requirements while maintaining accuracy and reliability.
Unknown
November 10, 2020
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